How to Brew Coffee

Brewing the perfect pot of coffee is not as simple as adding water to the beans. With the many different methods of brewing and variety in quality and flavors of coffee, it is sometimes confusing. Take the process step by step and decide what suits your taste, and sip that perfect cup in no time. Decide on the method and flavor you desire and incorporate these suggestions into your routine to get the best quality with every pot you brew.

1. First: Cleanliness

   Ensure that your equipment is clean and free of any residue or grounds from previous use. This avoids giving your coffee a bitter flavor.

2. Second: Use fresh coffee

   It is essential that fresh roasted coffee is used to achieve that perfect cup, so buy it in small amounts every one to two weeks. For measuring, the general rule is to use 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for every 6 ounces of water, but this is adjustable for personal preferences.

3. Third: Add water

   The water used is very important for the results. If your tap water is not good, use filtered or bottled cold water, not distilled or softened. If using tap water, let it run for a few seconds before putting it in your pot.

4. Fourth: Enjoy immediately after brewing

   Coffee is best when fresh, and starts to lose its taste soon after brewing, so only make as much as you plan to drink right away. It should never get left on a burner longer than 15 minutes or it burns.

5. Fifth: Do not reuse grounds

   Once used, the grounds that are left produce a bitter tasting coffee. Discard the used grounds, and start fresh with each pot brewed.